Casinos in Louisiana will be ceasing gaming operations tonight for at least two weeks at midnight as the coronavirus continues to impact Louisiana. Chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board Ronnie Jones says the decision comes after discussions with the Governor’s staff throughout the weekend.
“We just thought the best course of action would be to close all twenty casinos in the state. That’s never happened in the history of gaming in Louisiana but we think its the smartest thing to do from a public health standpoint,” said Jones.
Governor Edwards has banned gatherings of 50 people or more. Jones says the casinos were notified this was likely to happen, adding owners have been very supportive.
“I’ve not had one person in the industry push back and say, ‘Boy, that is a stupid thing to do,’ as they are all in agreement that we have to protect the health and welfare of their employees and customers ahead of everything else,” said Jones.
Jones says the order is only applicable to a casino’s gaming operations.
“Hotels can remain open at the discretion of the property owners and of course subject to any local restrictions that might be in place from local government,” said Jones.
Jones estimates the lost state revenue will be about $1.6 million each day of the closure.
